This article is an excerpt from Spruce Pets
Many house cats struggle with a variety of conditions that affect their bladder and/or urethra, broadly known as urinary tract health. This can present as difficulty and pain when urinating, increased frequency of urination and/or blood in the urine. Cats may urinate outside the litter box, in corners, a sink, or a bathtub. While these issues can occur at any age, it is often seen in middle-aged, overweight cats that don’t get enough exercise.
A cat’s diet can contribute to urinary pH imbalance or help improve it. “Diets can vary in how they support urinary tract health, but it’s important to look for restricted amounts of minerals, such as magnesium and phosphorus, which can contribute to the development of urinary crystal and stone formation,” explains Dr. Danielle Bernal, Global Veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food. The crystals cause painful urination and the stones are painful to pass. They may cause urinary tract infections, blockages, or kidney problems.
“Animal nutritionists typically formulate recipes that promote a more acidic pH urine concentration, creating an environment that discourages crystal formation. Additionally, wet diets specifically support urinary health by boosting hydration to help dilute concentration.”
Providing your cat with a high-quality diet tailored for urinary tract health is among the most significant ways we can improve their comfort, long-term health, and longevity. In general, look for food that has high moisture and low magnesium content. Think about the type and quality of the ingredients, including if they're organic, local, or if they have other certifications. “Grain-free” foods are generally better for cats with urinary tract issues, so long as it doesn't contain high carbs like potatoes and peas1
Below are a few of the best urinary tract health cat foods available today.
Key Ingredients: Boneless chicken, chicken broth, tomato paste, cranberries, blueberries, Alltech Acid Balance | Calories per Serving: 62 (half can) | Balance: Protein min. 9%, Fat min. 5%, Crude Fiber max. 1%, Moisture max. 82% | Life stages: All | Texture: Chunks of boneless chicken in gravy
What We Like
Chicken is the first ingredient
Includes digestive support ingredients
Contains Postbiotics
No prescription needed
Manufactured in Markham, Illinois, this food contains just a few main ingredients (boneless chicken, chicken broth, tomato paste, cranberries, and blueberries) and essential vitamins and minerals plus three special components. Alltech Acid Balance lowers urinary pH to prevent bladder stones and struvite crystals. Alltech NVGEN, made from yeast and yucca extracts, meant to feed the gut nutrients called postbiotics that it’s not currently making well on its own. Actogen—a cocktail of yucca, chicory root, and yeast—also promotes healthy digestion.
It is grain- and gluten-free and has added omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to nourish skin and fur. An added bonus is that the steel cans are confirmed bisphenol-A (BPA)-free with labels printed on recycled paper. Although this recipe is not kosher, for those requiring a kosher diet for their cat, Evanger’s offers more than 40 recipes endorsed by the Chicago Rabbinical Council as kosher for cats.
Evanger’s canned pet food has a long history of striving for a healthier diet for pets, and is a family-owned and operated company.
We want to thank Spruce Pets for their amazing research and recommendations. You can read the full article here: https://www.thesprucepets.com/best-cat-foods-for-urinary-tract-health-4692666#toc-best-overall-evangers-evx-restricted-urinary-tract
Comments
Post a Comment